A Proud Moment

Last Saturday was Bjorn's moving up day.

I was probably the most excited of all. Excited. Proudest. Bjorn's school classified the top students of each level in three categories -- WITH HONORS, WITH HIGH HONORS, and WITH HIGHEST HONORS.

Bjorn had been in WITH HONORS for three consecutive quarters. On his moving up day, he got a bronze medal for being one of the top students in nursery. He was also recognized for his VERBAL AND LINGUISTICS skills in which he got another award.

As working parents, we were so proud of what Bjorn had become. With my few hours in the mornings to teach him, and another few hours of my husband's time in the afternoon, Bjorn was able to pull through his first year of formal education.

When he was just barely 3 years old, I already introduced him to a classroom-style teaching. I bought him some flashcards, white board, educational charts, more books, pencils, crayons, eraser and some notebooks. I didn't know that he would be that interested in studying. There were even some days when he was the one reminding me to 'study'.

When he first stepped in his school, he was a bit hesitant. He didn't want to be left there. He would cry when he didn't see me. The first few weeks were difficult. After some months, whenever I saw him off to school, he would tell me to leave. At first I had a feeling of hurt. My son did not need me anymore. But I realized that he was already independent. He did not need mommy at those moments. He could survive at school. And then again, it made me proud of him.

Bjorn's as ordinary as other kids are. He loves playing, dancing, singing, running, watching cartoons, eating ice cream and pizza and having afternoon naps. What makes him special is that he always makes us proud. He always gives us something to smile about.

I would never forget how he walked on that platform -- with pride and elegance -- and how he showed his 'certificate' to all the people in that hall. I would never forget how I felt that time -- a feeling beyond happiness, indescribable -- that I nearly burst into tears.

I love you son. Mom always will. :)